My Grandmother's Journey to the U.S.
July 5th, 1982 marked the day when my grandmother and her siblings embarked on a life-changing journey. Leaving from San Julian, Jalisco at 9:00 AM, they made their way towards Tijuana, Mexico, arriving at their destination on a Wednesday. The days spent in Tijuana were filled with anticipation as they awaited the arrival of the coyotes who would guide them to America. After a few days of waiting, my grandmother and her siblings were led by a group of teenage coyotes, aged around 14 and 15, through a challenging trek into America, including navigating through a tunnel. Arriving in San Isidro, California, they found refuge among other migrants with similar backgrounds, forming connections and shared experiences. Their paths diverged as they settled in different cities, with my grandmother eventually making a home in Chicago, Illinois, where she would go on to build a family and create a new life for herself. The story of my grandmother's courageous journey serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and challenges faced by many immigrants in pursuit of a better future. It is a testament to their resilience, hope, and determination.

– Abel

Relationship:  Grandchild of im/migrant Grandchild of im/migrant